The Hammer Reviews

• A wonderful, watchable entertaining movie- Best you've seen in a long while

  
  By A1GBIWNI383W4N on 2008-03-25
  Carolla and Juergensen have a hit here! The Hammer, loosely based on Adam Carolla's real life as a simple carpenter -- before the his top-rated morning radio show, before his turning-point friendship with now Tonight Show host Jimmy Kimmel, before The Man Show -- is an authentic view into the dreams, doubts and struggles of an average guy trying to make a better life for himself in the tough world of boxing without losing his ethics. Carolla's trademark wit will keep you laughing through the entire movie; the boxing scenes provide enough action for guys; Juergensen as the smart love interest hits just the right note; the entire film simply amuses, delights and charms. Buy This Classic Movie! You will love it regardless of whether you know who Carolla is. I just saw this movie Friday and can't stop smiling and recommending it. Mainstream reviews are uniformly positive; Ebert & gave it 2 thumbs way up!
  
  

• See This Movie

  
  By A2355DD0LQNRB8 on 2008-04-23
  When I heard this was an independent film project by Adam Carolla, I assumed it was going to be at least fun to watch and since I'm a fan of Adam I decided to support him by watching this movie. Let me just say that this movie is the funniest movie I've seen in a long time. Make no mistake with The Hammer, it wasn't simply "better than expected", it is genuinely a great movie, very funny, and very fun to watch.
  
  It's the perfect movie to buy on DVD, because many people haven't seen or heard of it, so when you've got people over at the house looking at your DVD collection, The Hammer is one you're going to convince them to watch every time.
  
  

• Dear online movie review diary...

  
  By A2EH0475MQHFP4 on 2008-06-03
  Dear online movie review diary,
  
  Went to San Diego opening weekend to see a movie starring the Aceman, Adam Carollla. Wait, only two 'L's in Carolla.
  
  Delete! Delete.
  
  My two regrets about the movie are that I only saw it once, and that my hero Tom Brady isn't in it. As it is, it is only the funniest, wittiest, and best movie of the year, be it independent or studio-driven. If you doubled down and added some Brady, it is the perfect film, bar none.
  
  Don't make the same mistake I did, online movie review readers. Buy two copies of the DVD so you can see it twice. It is that funny. Then send one copy each to the Aceman and Tom Brady, asking that they sign and return. When you don't get either copy back, buy another copy for future enjoyment.
  
  P.S. - G.S. Go Sox!
  
  

• A near perfect movie!

  
  By AAABWINHDZNYO on 2008-05-31
  One of the few movies in years that made me laugh out loud throughout when I saw it in theaters. Granted, I am a huge Adam Carolla fan, so I may be biased, but aside from the few faults in this movie I chalk up to budget over any thing else, this movie is great.
  
  

• Great Movie

  
  By A3T6JDRX6AD50N on 2008-06-24
  This is a great movie for anyone who likes Adam Carolla, sports movies, or both.
  It is consistently funny, well paced, and has a great story.
  
  
• MIIIIIIIJJJJJOOOOOOOO!!
  By A3PL3BMJN0KE8V on 2008-06-18
  Despite the lack of big-industry marketing to support a national theatrical release, this ACTUALLY is a film worth seeing.
  
  The Hammer is a solid comedy all around. Good Characters. Good acting. Good story. Good message.
  
  ...and better than your initial expectations about a film made by the guy from the Man Show.
  
  
• Funny, well acted and a fun uplifting story injected with Romance.
  By A205SDJR9D2IEQ on 2008-05-30
  This is a great comedy for men and women of any age. There are plenty of laughs for Adams Fans from his other shows like Loveline, The Man Show and his Morning Radio show. But it also has a wide appeal for those who may not be familiar with Carolla. Very funny without relying on movie cliches like most other comedies made recently. It has a fun and uplifting story with excellent and genuine performances from every role.
  
  A great Romantic Comedy, perfect for dates and couples. No matter who you are you will find something to enjoy in this movie.
  
  Also don't fear the R rating. It has 2 F Bombs that are in context and not vulgar. There is no violence other than some boxing. No sex, nudity or suggestive conversation. No gross out humor or anything offensive for that matter. unless you are super uptight you won't find anything in here that you would feel uncomfortable showing your 10 year old.
  
  if you don't buy it, at least do yourself a favor and rent it. But you'll probably end up buying it later if you rent it.
  
  
• It was ACTUALLY good!
  By A32SZXWCJ1XSV7 on 2008-06-16
  Anyone who listens to Carolla's radio show has heard how many people have uttered those words. It is unfair, but the reality is that even as a HUGE fan, I was impressed. Everyone in the theater loved it and it was a great and unique story. Check it out!
  
  
• A smart funny man creates a classic independant film
  By AKN2MGOOLZJMG on 2008-06-18
  Adam Carolla commented that this movie was about an 8.5, but it had an extra likability and charm to it that other, equally satisfying movies on a technical level, do not have. That statement defines as well as possible the special affection that most viewers walk away from this film with. While an 8.5 is rare to find in theaters this day - or decade, there is something that connects with you when watching this film. Maybe it's due to the universal themes it tells in its story and the fact that it doesn't confine itself to one genre, or any tired production cliches.
  In the tale of this main character's life, there are great laughs, tumultuous challenges, determinism, and humanity. It forgoes the mainstream movie model mold, to have the courage to flow between varying moods to best express these emotions and themes. One scene may have no laughs, while exploring romance or drama instead. Each aspect of this story is singularly richer due to that respect of the viewer's intelligence, while working in harmony when the time is right to create a wonderful and rare tapestry of composition, touching on many themes and emotions at once.
  This film is composed with that fresh independence and it also looks the part. Far from a negative point, certain scenes clearly lack the Hollywood polish and relentlessly overproduced timing. There is a spirit of good friends, who happen to know what good comedy and good art is, getting together with their free time to put it on film - while done professionally and in skillful craft, it is not drowning in its own diluted stylism.
  As I said, this film is not one genre more than the other; it's the life of a man who is middle aged and ready to take a chance, who luckily has a great sense of humor along the ride. In fact, I would place Adam Carolla's character in the same league as Woody Allen and Larry David in that incredibly difficult role of the self-depricating, worldly complainer, whom is still charming and never loses your affection. Beyond those legendary entertainers often portrayed roles, Carolla adds even more dimensions in his character, in the form of a man who knows when to be serious or romantic, in addition to that inviting wit and humor.
  The Hammer is a movie that doesn't come along often. It may be about an 8.5 on paper, but there is an unbelievably fresh vitality and meaning that comes through above all else and earns your affection; also earning it a near perfect rating, due to it's universal draw and long-unseen unique delivery. It connects on a level that is reserved for our most beloved classic films. For that, it is an excellent film with a story you may be familiar with, but delivered with a passion and brilliant humanity the likes of which I've never seen, nor expect to again any time soon. Thank you, Adam Carolla, for sharing your love of the art with us and providing us that.
  
  
• something for everyone
  By A246182GTF7XTW on 2008-05-29
  When I saw this in the theatre, there were men and women in their mid-20s to senior citizens. Everyone laughed throughout. It appeals to both male and female sensibilities. If you enjoy good cinema, you'll love this one.
  
  
• How do you market this?
  By A266BEWHMW4WZ6 on 2008-06-02
  The film industry has a problem when a movie this good gets over looked because they can't figure out which category it belongs in. See it. You'll like it. I don't need to know you to know that. There's something for everyone; men, women, young, old. It's brilliant! It doesn't try to be too much and then over delivers. Funny (in a non "Man Show" way), romantic (in a non "chick flick" way), action (in a non "CGI overkill" way). Do yourself a favor... go now... see it and tell your friends.
  
  
• Great Movie
  By A2WFPQJ2Z8UTZV on 2008-06-02
  Carolla really nailed it with this movie. This movie represents a return to spoken comedy with a well written script, great production value, and fantastic casting. The movie is genuinely laugh out loud funny. I highly recommend it.
  
  When one hears independent film one usually doesnt get a high quality product like this.
  
  
• Dont let the Man Show Scare you
  By A1ZHR6QRR66H70 on 2008-06-10
  This is good story about an unlikely man who, like a lot of Americans is struggling to make his way. An unlikely turn of events sends him down a path that is both hilarious and yes believe it or not, inspiring.
  For those of you who feel like every movie you see lately is the same old Hollywood formula check out The Hammer, a real LA story about a regular guy trying to get by.
  
  This is a film that everyone can enjoy. The R rating is baffling, it is not girls jumping on trampolines.
  
  
• Great Movie
  By ACD5FTPHRB0CB on 2008-06-20
  We are huge fans of Adam's radio show and went to see the movie in the theater and loved it!!! It felt authentic and believable without being cliché. The casting was great we loved Oswaldo. Great job Adam!
  
  
• Wow! A good independent film for a change. A star is born.
  By A1J1K3X8ZMB5WD on 2008-07-12
  Adam Carolla's first effort as a filmmaker is at some point going to make him into a bonafide movie star. Carolla has that rare natural talent to be entertaining and spontaneously creative seemingly without effort. This movie does not have the look and feel of the typical independent movie. It has the look of a lot of studio polish; the acting and casting is spot on and the plot and story telling are first rate. It's a good story, well told - the essence of good writing with a proper beginning, middle, and ending.
  
  It's amazing that all the elements came together in his first effort. It's much like a first novel when you are surprised it turns outs to be good. I'm looking forward to Carolla's next film. He's playing himself here and so is playing to his strength. A wise move. Whatever script he gets next time needs to accommodate Carolla's ability to come up with clever banter as he does daily in his morning radio show.
  
  It would be neat if he got cast as a bad guy in a straight action or drama film just to see if he could act as someone other than himself. With his talent, I think it's a sure thing. It's probably an even surer bet that his next film will be a comedy and even better than this one. We're looking at a franchise actor in Adam Carolla. His star is about to rise even higher. Talent like this is appreciated because it is so rare.
  
  The Hammer is a sure bet. The "R" rating is one of those quirks of the MPAA system. Any movie that contains the "F" word gets the "R" rating automatically. That word is uttered once and in a very humorous context. This isn't an offensive film by any reasonable standard. It's a good film and you probably haven't seen any good movies lately.
  
  
• Ace Man Gets a Great Knock Out Hit
  By A1U7DEVJWX7QJU on 2008-05-29
  I saw this movie about four times in theaters, not because I am a Ace Corolla fan(which I am) but because this is a great movie. We live in a day and age where crappy movies make millions (good luck chuck?) and a great movie like the Hammer could not find the founding to be put into more than twenty theaters. This is a great movie and Adam Corolla holds his own in this movie.
  
  The general story is one most people can relate to, a middle aged guy whose life has lead him to one dead end after another. One day he gets a second change to make something of himself in the boxing ring and decides to take a chance one more time. Finding rivalry, friendship and a new love this movie has everything a person could want in a GOOD comedy.
  It stars Adam Corolla and his real life friend Ozzy in a great movie to watch on a Saturday night. A movie for ALL AGES even thought it does have a R rating it is more a PG that a R movie. Most people recognize the Ace Man from The Man Show or Love Line but this movie is a polar opposite romantic comedy about one man trying to do one last thing with his life.
  
  You may not have seen it in the theaters but own it on DVD and see that Adam Corolla is a great leading man and a true comedic great. Peace.
  
  
  
• The Hammer nails it
  By A1M7MZGH7E25X2 on 2008-06-15
  Simply put--a great movie. You don't have to be an Adam Carolla fan to love this light comedy. I took my 9 year old son on his birthday and we both loved it. Ignore the R rating. It has two well-placed F bombs and not worthy of such a restricted rating. Adam provides a great balanced of humor and storyline. I can't wait to have my own copy so I can watch it again and again. A must see if you enjoy comedies.
  
  
• Awesome Movie
  By ASU07YH25GCAT on 2008-06-20
  A Must see great for all ages. Disregard the "R" rating...damn the man. This is a PG-13 movie. Adam Carrolla is awesome.
  
  
• Buy this movie!
  By A1U2P7GDQ7AMZB on 2008-06-21
  Terrific film! Consistently funny and has a lot of heart.
  
  I hope Adam takes on more film projects. He has a unique comic sensibility. Whether it be one-liners or rants, Carolla always brings the funny. The Hammer is no exception.
  
  Also, this is one of the those flicks with a high "re-watchability rating." I hope it does well on DVD and I know it will find a larger audience once it hits cable.
  
  
• 5 STARS? ARE YOU ALL SERIOUS?
  By AVPJ9F4OR0VRB on 2008-07-19
  I have been a fan of Adam Carolla since he sat alongside Dr. Drew on the radio show "Love Line." I listened to him from the first day he was on Dr. Drew's show until he left to move on to bigger and better things for himself. I even sat in the audience of his TV show "The Man Show" which I really enjoyed. However, I have to say much to Adam's chagrin that he is a lousy actor. He is too much of a stiff in front of the camera and always has been. His acting in "The Hammer" is "NO" exception.
  My guess has to be that the other people who left an overwhelming positive review here on Amazon for "The Hammer" must certainly be his pals in Hollywood. The idea of Adam portraying a carpenter and a boxer is so ridiculous because if you know Adam you know that he used to work as a carpenter and met Jimmy Kimmel while giving him boxing lessons. Suffice to say that there was no need to make an effort here where Adam had to research his character for the movie since he is essentially in a role as himself.
  Adam, I really like your work in radio and I strongly believe that that is where you need to keep yourself. You have a very quick wit and your salt of the earth comedy leaves me in stitches.
  Sorry Adam, but this is my honest opinion and it pains me because I really wanted to like your movie.
  
  
  
• not todays comedy... thats why its great
  By A2KICL7EXU4HBU on 2008-06-03
  This movie is something you can see happening in real life. You want to help out Jerry in his quest to jump back in the boxing world. This isn't some stupid NASCAR driver making it to the top. You will laugh at Ozzie and feel a little racist. You will love Jerry's excess knowledge of the carpenter trade. And you will feel bad for him when he jumps rope in front of girls. If you missed this movie in theatres or you saw it in your area it is needed for any comedy collection.
  
  
• Excellent, hilarious, feel-good movie!
  By A2E91Q4REIL17D on 2008-06-18
  I think that anyone who listens to Adam Carolla's show, or who was a fan of the Man Show, will have some preconceived notion about this film, good or bad. But you can throw all of that out the window! Although this film definitely satisfies in terms of fresh and original comedy, it also pulls at your heart strings and has a plot that is (thankfully) far from cliché. Superb!
  
  
• Hammer Time
  By AK2YDJG9T4F3R on 2008-06-20
  Adam is always ripping people on his show for being egotistical or being blowhards... but i guarantee you he will at least ONCE check the feedback on amazon to see what people are saying. Great movie by the way, Adam.
  
  
• The Ace Man at his best
  By A322PWK2BFERLG on 2008-06-14
  Wow I was surprised with this movie, I didn't think it would be any good. Who knew Adam could act? Definitely worth at least a rental if not an outright buy.
  
  
• Not just for dudes!
  By A35CPZHRJ50PJA on 2008-06-14
  I went to see this in the theatre because Adam was there in person to do Q & A after the movie and I thought...wow, he's really passionate about this project so it must be good. It was better than I ever expected and had such a great underdog story combined with a little love and a LOT of laughs! Adam is a great actor and is made for the big screen. Adam stayed for over an hour after the screening and answered questions and nothing was off-limits! He is so honest, funny and refreshingly real... I hope to see many more Corolla Comedies!
  Buy the Hammer, it'll KNOCK YOU OUT!
  
  
• great movie!
  By AI5YBL7MCQUE4 on 2008-06-15
  I just loved this movie. I laughed out loud and really enjoyed the story. The Hammer is a rare gem of a movie with a well writted script and a completly enjoyable cast. Thank you Adam Carolla for a fun, delight of a movie .(ps- the R rating is misleading.. i think young teens could enjoy this movie witht no problem... no sex, no drugs, no reason for an R)
  
  
• Warm and hysterical!
  By A27XBGJUHN0MKH on 2008-06-17
  Do yourself a favor and own this movie - Carolla shines with his wit! It's a shame that truly smart and funny comedies, like Arrested Development and Mr. Show, usually fly under the radar these days; Do not let this one get away. Much of this movie feels like Curb Your Enthusiasm, as the actors look and sound so comfortable on camera. I was really impressed until the credits rolled. Good stuff, Adam.
  
  
• Brilliant movie!!!
  By A36MF49WAAP85Z on 2008-06-17
  Brilliant movie, even if you never watched The Man Show, listened to Love-Line, or listen to his radio show. And if you're a fan of any of those works you'll like it even more. It's loosely based on Carolla's life (very loosely) and if you don't know Carolla this movie should definately pique your interest.
  
  It's very funny and has tons of heart. It's easy to watch with anyone, a date or just friends. Definately worth checking out.
  
  
• Excellent
  By A2PI9PZ4E9T78A on 2008-06-19
  The Hammer was a great movie, it told a great story without dragging it out for 2+ hours and following the standard formula of today's comedy titles. Carolla is hilarious and Robert Brown does an amazing job. ---The most all around entertaining movie i've seen this year, you may not call it the best comedy you've ever seen and the story may not stay with you forever but as a movie that you and everyone you know will enjoy thoroughly it is a masterpiece.
  
  
• The Hammer Is Great
  By A278ENVYWQ3E54 on 2008-06-24
  I'm a big Adam Carolla fan but I don't think that is at all a prerequisite to enjoy this movie. Everyone will love Ozzie, Carolla's real life construction worker buddy. The Hammer is an incredible feat considering this is Carolla's first foray into full on movie creation. A+ Ace Man!
  
  

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